The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Port of Davao turned over 2,954 abandoned balikbayan boxes to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for distribution to their intended recipients — the families of Overseas Filipino Workers.
These boxes, originally sent by OFWs to their loved ones, were left unclaimed after being mishandled and abandoned by unscrupulous freight forwarders. Their distribution to their intended recipients follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to the BOC to ensure its services remain people-centered and responsive to the needs of Filipino families.
With the approval of the Department of Finance, the BOC officially declared the boxes forfeited and signed a Deed of Donation with DMW. The DMW is now tasked with ensuring that these long-delayed packages finally reach the families they were meant for.
“These boxes are more than just packages — they’re filled with love, hope, and sacrifice,” said Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio. “We know what these mean to our kababayans. With DMW’s help, we’re making sure they arrive where they belong.”
District Collector Maita Acevedo, through Deputy Collector Atty. Giovanni Leynes from the Port of Davao, stressed the agency’s broader mission: “Sa ahensyang ito, hindi lamang tayo tagapangalaga ng kalakalan. Tayo rin ay kaagapay sa paghahatid ng pag-asa lalo na sa ating mga bagong bayani.”
DMW Assistant Secretary for Reintegration Atty. Francis Ron De Guzman thanked the BOC for its sustained support. “The Bureau of Customs has always been there — from day one to day zero — helping us deliver this symbol of love and sacrifice,” he said.
The turnover followed months of coordination between BOC and DMW, starting in 2024. From legal clearances to logistics, the process was handled with precision and empathy.
The DMW has since partnered with a logistics provider to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of the boxes to their rightful beneficiaries.
The initiative reflects the BOC’s evolving role: one that balances efficiency with heart — protecting trade while safeguarding the dreams of Filipino families abroad.
